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Inflammatory Foods to Avoid

Date Published:

February 19th, 2016

Inflammation is associated with many diseases and health issues, including back pain.

When most people think of inflammation, they generally think of arthritis, but in reality, inflammation is associated with many diseases and health issues. Muscular low back pain is often associated with inflammation. Chemicals in your white blood cells are released to protect your body when inflammation occurs, but they also increase the flow of blood to the area, which can lead to swelling, irritation and discomfort. Our Santa Fe chiropractor can help you find pain relief for your back pain, but it’s also a good idea to avoid these inflammatory foods:

#1. Sugar

Not only has sugar been linked to obesity, diabetes and dental decay, it also increases your risk for inflammation. If you want something sweet, opt for natural sweeteners instead of sugar. Honey, Stevia and blackstrap molasses are good natural sugar substitutes.

#2. Vegetable Oils

Many types of vegetable oils contain very low amounts of omega-3 fatty acids and very high amounts of omega-6 fatty acids. Diets that consist of too many omega-6 fatty acids promote inflammation. Luckily, there are some oils that have a better balance of omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids, including extra virgin olive oil and macadamia oil.

#3. Factory-Raised Meat

Animals that are raised in factory farms are given a diet high in grains to increase weight gain. This diet of corn and soy has high amounts of omega-6 fatty acids and low amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. Just as with the vegetable oil, this imbalance can promote inflammation. Instead of buying meat from factory farms, look for organic and grass fed meats.